When the term "Pin-Up Girls" comes to mind, many envision the iconic figures of World War II, renowned for their vintage glamour and cultural impact. However, the origins of pin-up art trace back much further than the 1940s. This fascinating tradition began in the 1800s, with roots deeply embedded in both American and French advertising long before the art form became synonymous with scantily clad women.
Contrary to the perception that pin-up art objectifies women, historians recognize it as a significant feminist tool. These artworks and photographs served as propaganda that challenged social norms, normalizing women in trousers, public independence, and workforce participation. Today’s media often showcases far more explicit content, making the suggestive poses of yesteryear seem relatively modest. Let’s delve into the intriguing history of the pin-up girl and uncover what many may not know.
The Birth of a Sensation: Bicycle Ads and the Scandal of the 1800s
In the late 19th century, women began embracing bicycles, which symbolized newfound freedom and mobility. Dubbed "freedom machines," these bicycles allowed women to traverse towns independently, sans male escort. Advertisements featuring women on bikes stirred controversy, as traditionalists feared that the bicycles and bloomers (the precursor to women’s pants) were morally improper. Despite their relatively modest attire, these women faced significant backlash, yet they marked a pivotal step toward greater independence.
Toulouse-Lautrec and the Sensuality of the Moulin Rouge
(Even though they seem very tame today, Toulouse-Lautrec’s posters were considered to be very sexy back in 1891.)
Henri Toulouse-Lautrec, a prominent artist of the late 1800s, is celebrated for his evocative depictions of Parisian nightlife. Frequenting the Moulin Rouge, Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized can-can dancers through his distinctive lithographs. His bold, colorful posters conveyed an air of sensuality, even though his subjects were fully clothed. Toulouse-Lautrec’s work captured the allure of the Moulin Rouge and set the stage for future pin-up artists, blending innocence with sensuality in his portrayals.
The Rise of Burlesque: Photos as Promotional Tools
(Poster for a popular burlesque performance in the 1800’s.)
From the 1860s through the 1940s, burlesque performances gained popularity across the United States. These variety shows featured women performing on stage, often involving a strip tease. To secure roles, many burlesque performers used semi-nude photographs as part of their portfolios. While burlesque involved a level of undress, it remained a sophisticated and entertaining form of performance, distinct from the more explicit forms of stripping.
The Gibson Girl: Defining Beauty
(Even though they were fully clothed, there is just something special about these Gibson Girls.)
Charles Dana Gibson’s illustrations for *Life Magazine* introduced the world to the Gibson Girl—a paragon of feminine beauty in the early 20th century. These illustrations depicted women with elegant hairstyles and hourglass figures, embodying grace and allure without overt vulgarity. The Gibson Girl became an archetype, influencing artists and shaping public perceptions of idealized female beauty.
Hollywood Starlets and the Evolution of Pin-Up Style
(Dolores Morens was a Hollywood actress from the 1930’s-40’s.)
In the 1930s and 1940s, Hollywood starlets embraced pin-up aesthetics, wearing figure-flattering outfits and bright red lipstick. Their portrayal of innocence combined with allure was a hallmark of the era’s film industry. Despite criticisms of vulgarity, these starlets maintained a level of classiness that contrasted sharply with modern standards of sexual expression.
Miss America and the Idealized Beauty Standard
(Margaret Gorman, the first winner of Miss America.)
The Miss America Pageant, beginning in the 1920s, initially aimed to attract tourism to Atlantic City. Over the decades, the competition evolved, setting increasingly stringent standards for beauty and physique. By the 1950s, the pageant had become a symbol of idealized femininity, shaping societal expectations and influencing perceptions of beauty among young women.
Pin-Up Art in WWII: Boosting Morale
(Actress Jane Russell was one of the most popular pin-up models during World War II.)
During World War II, pin-up art served as a morale booster for soldiers. The U.S. government distributed pin-up images to remind troops of what they were fighting to protect. These artworks adorned military bunks and posters in camps, contributing to the post-war Baby Boom as soldiers returned home eager to start families.
Nose Art on WWII Bombers: A Unique Expression
(B-24 Liberator “Net Results” is a perfect example of the “oops” Pin-up style.)
A peculiar facet of WWII was the adornment of bomber aircraft with pin-up art. This tradition, though paradoxical given the context, served as a source of motivation for pilots. While some nose artists refused to depict nudity, others embraced the opportunity to feature scantily clad figures, contributing to a unique form of wartime expression.
The 1950s: Pin-Up Girls and Advertiser's Goldmine
(Pepsi Cola ad from the 1950’s.)
The 1950s saw the explosion of pin-up culture, epitomized by the debut of *Playboy* magazine. Hugh Hefner’s publication, featuring Marilyn Monroe’s iconic nude calendar photo, became a sensation. The era marked a shift where advertisers began leveraging pin-up imagery to attract consumers, reflecting changing attitudes toward sexuality and marketing.
Barbie Dolls and the Influence of Pin-Up Culture
(The original Barbie doll only came with a bathing suit, and clothes were sold separately.)
Introduced in 1959, the original Barbie doll embodied elements of pin-up culture with its form-fitting bathing suits and stylized features. Barbie's design, including her hourglass figure and fashionable attire, echoed pin-up aesthetics, influencing perceptions of beauty and femininity among young girls.
Marilyn Monroe: From Pin-Up to Icon
(One of Marilyn Monroe’s modeling photos before she became a superstar.)
Before her Hollywood stardom, Marilyn Monroe posed for pin-up photographs. Her transition from model to superstar did not erase her pin-up past but rather highlighted her iconic status. Monroe’s portrayal of glamorous yet accessible femininity became a defining feature of her career, further immortalized by Hugh Hefner’s use of her photographs in *Playboy*.
Women of Color in Pin-Up History
(Josephine Baker was an international burlesque star. )
While pin-up culture often spotlighted white models, women of color also made significant contributions. Figures like Josephine Baker and Lottie Graves became symbols of beauty and elegance during the jazz age. The 1950s saw the emergence of African American magazines like *Jet*, which celebrated women of color in pin-up and beauty contexts, though opportunities remained limited.
Eartha Kitt: From Pin-Up to Stardom
(Young Eartha Kitt.)
Eartha Kitt’s career, beginning with pin-up modeling, evolved into a celebrated performing arts legacy. Known for her distinctive voice and roles in Broadway and film, Kitt’s early pin-up work paved the way for her success as a multifaceted entertainer, leaving an enduring impact on American culture.
Playboy Magazine Premieres in 1953
_
(Marilyn Monroe was on the first cover of Playboy Magazine.)
In 1953, Hugh Hefner founded Playboy Magazine, revolutionizing the way pin-up art was perceived and consumed. Hefner, who had served in World War II, recognized the demand for pin-up material among men returning from the war, a time when such content was difficult to access and often illegal to send through the mail. The magazine’s first issue famously featured a nude photograph of Marilyn Monroe, a legendary image that captivated the public and set the tone for Playboy’s future success. This bold move helped establish Playboy as a leading publication in the world of adult entertainment, and many models aspired to have their careers highlighted by appearing in its pages.
Bettie Page Was the “Queen of Pin-Ups”
_
Bettie Page, often hailed as the "Queen of Pin-Ups," became the most photographed model of the 20th century. Although she began her modeling career at 27, Page's iconic look—characterized by her black hair with bangs and bright blue eyes—quickly captured the public’s imagination. She was featured as "Miss January 1955" in Playboy Magazine, and Hugh Hefner praised her as a significant cultural figure who influenced sexuality and fashion. Page’s distinctive style and enduring legacy have made her a lasting icon, inspiring characters in pop culture and influencing future depictions of female beauty in media.
In The 1960s and 70s, Innocent Pin-Ups Were No Longer Popular
By the 1960s and 1970s, the cultural landscape had shifted significantly. The free love movement and changes in societal attitudes led to a decline in the popularity of traditional pin-up art. The emphasis in pin-up artwork moved away from the playful and suggestive to more explicit and direct representations of sexuality. Magazines like Hustler began to showcase more explicit content, and the nature of sexy imagery evolved accordingly. As societal norms changed, the vintage pin-up style became viewed as more wholesome compared to the more provocative imagery of the time.
Original Pin-Up Art Now Sells For Six Figures
_
(Gay Nymph by Gil Elvgren)
Despite falling out of favor for a period, vintage pin-up art has experienced a resurgence in interest. Collectors and enthusiasts now prize original pieces, which can sell for substantial amounts. For instance, a painting titled "Gay Nymph" by artist Gil Elvgren sold for an impressive $286,000 at auction in 2011. This renewed appreciation for pin-up art reflects a broader cultural nostalgia and recognition of its artistic value. Even amidst economic downturns, the value of original pin-up artwork has remained high, highlighting its enduring appeal.
Nostalgia Is Bringing Pin-Up and Burlesque Back
In recent decades, there has been a revival of interest in pin-up and burlesque as people look back fondly on a time when expressions of sexuality were more innocent compared to contemporary standards. This resurgence has been fueled by a growing appreciation for retro aesthetics and the charm of vintage style. Women, in particular, have embraced the pin-up look, with modern figures like Dita von Teese gaining fame as contemporary burlesque performers. This revival celebrates the nostalgic appeal of pin-up art and its place in the cultural landscape, offering a counterpoint to the more explicit trends in modern media.